Costa Rican Tilapia

Costa Rican Tilapia Recipe - Delicious and Flavorful

Region / culture: Costa Rica | Preparation time: 15 minutes | Cooking time: 20 minutes | Servings: 6

Introduction

Costa Rican Tilapia is a delicious and flavorful dish that combines fresh tilapia fillets with a zesty marinade, a savory bean and rice mixture, and a touch of citrus. This recipe is perfect for a family dinner or a special occasion.

History

Tilapia is a popular fish in Costa Rica, where it is often served with rice and beans, two staple ingredients in the country's cuisine. This recipe combines traditional Costa Rican flavors with a modern twist, making it a unique and delicious dish.

Ingredients

3 tbsp fresh lime juice
3 tbsp olive oil, divided
4 tbsp finely chopped fresh cilantro or parsley, divided
4 tsp minced garlic, divided
1 and a half teaspoons kosher salt, divided
quarter teaspoon sugar
6 tilapia fillets, about 5 oz (142 g) each
three-quarters cup long-grain rice
1 cup chopped onions
2 oranges, peeled, seeded, coarsely chopped
1 can (28 oz (794 g)) diced tomatoes, undrained
1 can (15 oz (425 g)) black or pinto beans, drained, rinsed
1 tsp dried oregano leaves
half teaspoon freshly ground black pepper
quarter teaspoon cayenne pepper

How to prepare

For the Tilapia marinade, combine lime juice, 1 tbsp of olive oil, 2 tbsp of cilantro, 1 tsp of garlic, 0.5 tsp of salt, and sugar in a shallow dish. Add Tilapia and marinate for 15 minutes, turning once.
To prepare the bean and rice mixture, cook the rice according to the package directions and keep it warm while the Tilapia is marinating. Preheat the oven to 400°F (204°C). In a large, high-sided skillet or saucepan, heat 2 tbsp of olive oil over medium heat. Add the remaining garlic and onions; sauté until translucent, about 5 minutes, stirring occasionally. Add 2 tbsp of cilantro, oranges, tomatoes, beans, oregano, 1 tsp of salt, pepper, and Cayenne. Cook, uncovered, until hot, for 7 to 8 minutes, stirring occasionally.
Transfer the hot rice to a 9 by 13-inch or 2-0.5 to 3 qt (2.84-liter) baking dish. Spoon the bean mixture on top of the rice and gently blend. Slightly overlap the Tilapia fillets on top and scrape the marinade over the fillets. Bake until the flesh of the Tilapia just begins to flake at the nudge of a fork, for 16 to 20 minutes.

Variations

Substitute the tilapia with another white fish, such as cod or halibut.
Add diced bell peppers or jalapenos to the bean and rice mixture for an extra kick of flavor.
Top the dish with a sprinkle of crumbled queso fresco or cotija cheese before serving.

Cooking Tips & Tricks

Make sure to marinate the tilapia for at least 15 minutes to allow the flavors to fully develop.

- Be careful not to overcook the tilapia, as it can become dry and tough.

- Serve the dish with a side of fresh avocado or a squeeze of lime for an extra burst of flavor.

Serving Suggestions

Serve the Costa Rican Tilapia with a side of steamed vegetables or a fresh green salad for a complete and balanced meal.

Cooking Techniques

Marinate the tilapia for at least 15 minutes to infuse it with flavor.

- Bake the dish in the oven to ensure that the tilapia cooks evenly and the flavors meld together.

Ingredient Substitutions

Use lemon juice instead of lime juice for a slightly different citrus flavor.

- Substitute black beans with kidney beans or chickpeas for a variation on the bean and rice mixture.

Make Ahead Tips

You can marinate the tilapia and prepare the bean and rice mixture ahead of time and refrigerate them until ready to bake.

Presentation Ideas

Serve the Costa Rican Tilapia on a bed of fluffy white rice, garnished with fresh cilantro leaves and a wedge of lime.

Pairing Recommendations

Pair this dish with a crisp white wine, such as a Sauvignon Blanc or a Pinot Grigio, to complement the citrus flavors.

Storage and Reheating Instructions

Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 2 days. Reheat in the microwave or oven until heated through.

Nutrition Information

Calories per serving

320

Carbohydrates

- Total Carbohydrates: 35g

- Dietary Fiber: 6g

- Sugars: 5g

Fats

- Total Fat: 10g

- Saturated Fat: 2g

- Trans Fat: 0g

Proteins

- Protein: 30g

Vitamins and minerals

Vitamin A: 10% DV

- Vitamin C: 30% DV

- Calcium: 6% DV

- Iron: 15% DV

Alergens

Contains fish

Summary

This dish is a good source of protein, vitamins, and minerals. It is relatively low in calories and carbohydrates, making it a healthy and satisfying meal option.

Summary

Costa Rican Tilapia is a flavorful and satisfying dish that combines fresh tilapia fillets with a zesty marinade and a savory bean and rice mixture. This recipe is perfect for a family dinner or a special occasion, and is sure to become a new favorite in your household.

How did I get this recipe?

The first time I saw this recipe, I was immediately captivated. It was a warm summer day in Costa Rica, and I had just arrived at a quaint little restaurant nestled by the beach. The scent of fresh seafood and spices filled the air, and I knew I was in for a culinary treat.

As I perused the menu, my eyes landed on the Costa Rican Tilapia dish. The description alone made my mouth water - a tender fillet of tilapia, marinated in a blend of citrus juices and spices, then grilled to perfection. It sounded like a symphony of flavors, and I knew I had to learn how to make it myself.

I had always been passionate about cooking, even from a young age. Growing up, I would spend hours in the kitchen with my mother and grandmother, learning their traditional recipes and techniques. But this Costa Rican Tilapia dish was unlike anything I had ever seen before. I was determined to uncover its secrets and bring a taste of Costa Rica back home with me.

After finishing my meal at the restaurant, I approached the chef and asked him about the recipe. His eyes lit up with excitement as he began to explain the process to me. He spoke of the importance of using fresh, local ingredients and of balancing the tangy citrus flavors with the smokiness of the grill. I listened intently, taking mental notes of every detail.

As I returned home, I set out to recreate the dish in my own kitchen. I sourced the freshest tilapia fillets I could find and gathered an array of citrus fruits and spices. I carefully marinated the fish, making sure to let it soak up all the flavors for hours before grilling it to perfection.

The moment I took my first bite, I was transported back to that sunny day in Costa Rica. The tilapia was tender and flaky, with a burst of citrusy goodness in every bite. It was a culinary masterpiece, and I couldn't wait to share it with my family and friends.

Over the years, I continued to perfect my recipe for Costa Rican Tilapia. I experimented with different marinades and grilling techniques, always striving to capture the essence of that unforgettable dish from the beachside restaurant. Each time I made it, I was flooded with memories of my time in Costa Rica and the warm hospitality of its people.

As word of my Costa Rican Tilapia spread, friends and neighbors began to request it for special occasions. I was more than happy to oblige, always eager to showcase the flavors of Costa Rica through my cooking. It became a staple at family gatherings and dinner parties, a dish that never failed to impress.

And so, the recipe for Costa Rican Tilapia became a beloved tradition in our family. It was a testament to my passion for cooking and my love for exploring new culinary horizons. Every time I made it, I felt a deep connection to the vibrant culture and flavors of Costa Rica, a piece of my heart forever entwined with that sunny paradise by the sea.